DJ Hitoshi Transforms Helsinki's Music Scene
Japanese-born DJ Hitoshi uses music to unite communities and energize Helsinki's underground scene, notably influencing the evolution of the club Tanner.
DJ Hitoshi, originally from Japan, has spent the past seven years embedding himself in Helsinki's music landscape. Drawn to Finland by childhood memories of Moomin figurines and a marketing studies program, Hitoshi discovered an unexpected path into the city's underground music scene through an internship at community radio station IDA Radio.
"I never thought I would become a DJ," Hitoshi stated. "But through IDA, I got to know the local music community, and soon I was DJing every weekend in Helsinki and around Europe and Japan." He characterizes Helsinki's music scene as smaller but more discerning compared to larger European cities, while highlighting a deep passion for underground sounds.
Hitoshi played a key role in transforming Tanner, a restaurant, into one of Helsinki's premier music venues. Approximately two years ago, he and a friend launched a dance-focused club night, significantly shifting the venue's atmosphere. Although Hitoshi no longer hosts his own club nights at Tanner, he remains committed to introducing fresh experiences to Helsinki's music scene.
He describes Helsinki as a "mothership of community," where creative work spreads rapidly. Hitoshi aims to bridge cultural divides, fostering inclusive spaces. He believes that in Helsinki, dedicated work is noticed and supported. His goal is to reduce perceived distance between international visitors and local Finns.
Hitoshi encourages exploring Helsinki's underground offerings, such as Tanner and record stores like Fresh Garbage Records, and reminisces about the Moomin-related connections that originally drew him to the city.